Mountains at higher elevations are still blanketed in snow at this time of year while the foothills below turn emerald green and by the end of the season, are decorated in wildflowers. Orchards lining river banks begin to blossom, and snow-melt fills rivers, lakes and streams, perfect for whitewater rafting. Waterfalls rush along the roadways delivering spectacular views. Gardens burst with spring flora and fields fill up with tulips, daffodils, young vegetables and spring hay. This time of year is when certain wildlife wake up from winter naps (black bears) and others start having babies--please watch for fawns in Spring and early Summer as they often show up in the darnedest places, and sometimes even in the roadway.
In the Spring weather is mighty fickle and prone to change without indication sometimes, so it's pretty important to keep an eye on the weather. Be sure to check the web cams and driving conditions of Stevens Pass: Web Cams and Pass Conditions – Stevens Pass and the North Cascades Web Cams and Pass Conditions - North Cascades.
It’s always a good idea to check your emergency supplies and car conditions before you leave home. We have created a checklist for you to make sure you are ready for the trip: Prepare for Winter Travel – Be Road Trip Ready!
Each spring we anxiously await the opening of the North Cascades Highway to allow access across the northern loop between the Methow Valley and the Skagit Valley. This link shows the history of opening and closing dates of the North Cascades Highway: Opening/Closing History
Orchards in Bloom in Cashmere
Rafting the Skykomish with Outdoor Adventure Center
Lower Wallace Falls, Stevens Pass Greenway
Cairns at Earth Sanctuary, Whidbey Island
Spring blooms at Meerkerk Gardens, Whidbey Island
Fidalgo Island Beach
Baby ducks are pretty abundant at this time of year
Fawn in the Refuge, Pete Freund Photo
Gosling family, Pete Freund Photog
Springtime is shorts weather in the Snohomish River Valley
Spring fields near Sedro-Woolley, photo by Andy Porter
Spring flowers on the Chelan Butte
Blooms in the Icicle River Valley, Leavenworth
Icy waterfalls on the roadside, North Cascades
Diablo Lake is still chilly at this time of year, North Cascades
Pond near Twisp, Methow Valley
View from Sun Mountain, Methow Valley
View of Leavenworth is Spring from Icicle Ridge
Daffodils in blooms near La Conner, Skagit Valley
Tulips in bloom near Mt. Vernon, Skagit Valley
Ducklings in the Refuge, Pete Freund Photo
